NHS is open to any junior who has a 3.0 cumulative GPA and has experience in leadership positions, co-curricular activities, service opportunities and community service. These include participating in clubs, teams or musical groups, elected or appointed to leadership positions in school, community or work activities, service done for or on behalf of someone for no monetary compensation or activities outside of school that work for the betterment of the student's community.

Three Forks chapter instructor Cheryl Lehr says this when asked about some bonuses to joining NHS: "NHS provides excellent opportunities for improving academic achievement, personal character, as well as the chance to receive both local and national scholarships."